Laboratory Technician Damion Ferron operating the apheresis machine used to extract blood and separate platelets

In observance of World Blood Donor Day on the 14^th June, the Cayman Islands Blood Bank, the only supplier of blood products on the island, is encouraging members of the public to become donors, emphasisng the crucial role voluntary donations play in saving lives and maintaining public health. 

This year’s theme, ‘20 Years of Celebrating Giving: Thank You, Blood Donors’, sheds light on the profound impact on both patients and donors. Last year, 1,600 persons donated blood, representing a 9% increase compared to 2022. 

The Blood Bank, however, continues to appeal for members of the public to become donors in order to facilitate the island meeting the Pan-American Health Organization’s (PAHO) recommendation to have 5% of the population as donors. As of 2023, the Cayman Islands is at 3.5%. 

“We ensure that a minimum daily inventory for all blood types is maintained so that when it is needed, we have sufficient supply. The goal is to be self-sustainable and therefore, there would be no need to procure blood overseas. Thanks to our donors, we are moving in the right direction,” noted Ms. Judith Clarke, Laboratory Manager. 

Additionally, the Blood Bank has reduced its importation of platelets thanks to the acquisition of two Haemonetics MCS+ machines in late 2022. The machines perform Apheresis platelets collection by extracting the platelets and filtering the blood back to the donor.

This resulted in an 84% reduction in imported platelets since 2021.

Acting CEO at the Health Services Authority Dr. Vinton Douglas noted, “the Blood Bank’s ability to reduce importation of blood products is a positive move to achieving self-sufficiency and improves the chances of saving lives.” 

With a broadening of the eligibility requirements to include persons who lived in the United Kingdom taking effect earlier this year, Dr. Douglas indicated that “this step helps to widen the pool of donors and improves our chances of meeting the threshold recommended by PAHO. With the increase in the population, the Blood Bank must ensure that it is prepared for eventualities such as surgeries, accident victims, and pregnant mothers across the islands.”

The Haemonetics MCS+ machine performs Apheresis platelets collection by extracting the platelets and filtering the blood back to the donor.

Donating blood takes approximately 10 minutes and donating platelets takes 1-2 hours, both available at the Blood Bank located at the George Town Hospital. To donate, individuals must be 18 to 65 years of age. Blood donations can be taken every 3 months for males and 4 months for females and platelets can be donated once per month. 

Persons may donate blood or platelets, Monday to Friday from 7:00 am – 6:30 pm, and on Saturdays from 9:00 am – 5:30 pm. Additionally, persons may visit the Cayman Islands Blood Bank website at www.bloodbank.ky to determine if they are eligible to donate blood and make an appointment. For questions regarding blood donation, contact 244-2674.